They are usually found growing in areas that are partially shaded, though in northern areas without particularly hot temperatures during the summer, they may also be growing in areas that get full sun. [4] X Research source

You’ll start noticing the leaves on a Japanese Maple early during the springtime. [8] X Research source

They aren’t found often in forests. Instead, red maples are typically seen as understory. [17] X Research source

Keep in mind, though, that the bark isn’t very helpful for identifying a red maple since as the tree is maturing, the bark undergoes changes. [21] X Research source

Specifically, it tends to grow close to waterways and on floodplains. [28] X Research source

Because of the flaky texture, if you have a silver maple, you’ll need to make sure that you remove any of the bark flakes that end up under the tree. [31] X Research source

You can often find mountain maples near streams, on ledges that are exposed, and/or on slopes that are steep. [35] X Research source

You’ll be able to produce more sap from this tree if it’s in a climate that is continental. [41] X Research source